Triglycerides

Understanding the marker

Triglycerides are fats that the body stores and uses for energy. The blood level is assessed with the other blood fats and the timing of meals.

Triglycerides are read with cholesterol results, glucose, medicines and health history. Follow the preparation instructions for the ordered test; a clinician may request a fasting repeat. Marked elevations need timely medical assessment because complications, including inflammation of the pancreas, can occur at very high levels.

What does high Triglycerides mean?

A high triglyceride result can be influenced by recent meals, inherited factors, medicines and how the body processes energy. The value alone does not show which factor applies. The level, sampling conditions and other blood fats guide assessment.

What does low Triglycerides mean?

Low values are usually not a clinical concern.